Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Catholic Charities in Omaha is closing down its behavioral health unit (presumably treating drug and alcohol dependents) due to financial losses and the requirement that they obey federal nondiscrimination laws. That “business” which relies on federal reimbursement will go to other providers. It's the usual “poor us” refrain. John J. Griffith is executive director of the operation. According to LifeSiteNews:

"What is our mission?" Griffith asked. "It’s to bring Christ to those in need through the works of mercy."

Federal non-discrimination laws mandate hiring and employment practices that recognize and function around a number of LGBT issues, including homosexual “marriages” and individuals afflicted with gender dysphoria who choose to live as the opposite gender.

The regulations mean the Catholic Church would have to function in violation of its principles.

First of all if you take government contracts then your mission (if you choose to accept it) is to fulfill those obligations, get paid and make a surplus. Hiring a qualified LGBT person to do a job does not mean that the organization is functioning in violation of Catholic principles. That view is held by arrogant and obnoxious bishops who are trying to get the world to conform to Catholic teachings. It's not about salvation or going to heaven. It's about getting a job done through the best possible hires.

Where does it end? Can they hire a Jewish doctor or a Muslim counselor? Probably. If I am not an affront as a Jew who doesn't believe that Christ was the messiah then why am I an affront if I happen to be gay and married? Those same obnoxious bishops need to demonstrate their disapproval of gays more than their disapproval of Jews. It's not only senseless but it is pointless.

The bishops seem to think that they are exacting some form of punishment on someone by closing something. It doesn't seem to be working.